Is Bad Breath Impacting You?

Bad breath is also known as halitosis. It is described as a foul smell and an unpleasant odor. Bad breath is caused primarily by bacteria and food particles that become trapped in the oral cavity and emit an unpleasant odor. Almost everyone experiences bad breath one time or another, whether it is after a meal filled with onions or morning breath when you get up in the morning. According to Harvard Medical School, 30% of the population struggles with some degree of bad breath daily. Bad breath may result from oral problems and poor dental hygiene habits, medical problems, types of foods we eat, unhealthy lifestyle habits and other factors.

                                                    

    Some Causes of Bad Breath

Oral problems and poor dental hygiene habits

• Poor oral hygiene; not brushing and flossing daily
• Food particles remain in the mouth, promoting bacterial growth between teeth, around the gums and on the tongue
• Bacteria on the tongue
• Odor-causing bacteria and food particles may cause bad breath if dentures are not properly cleaned
• Gum infection caused by periodontal disease
• Infection in the mouth results from the growth of bacteria. Teeth, gums, bone and surrounding tissues of the mouth can all become infected by different groups of bacteria that vary in smell. Many of these bacteria produce a foul smell that alters taste sensation and cause bad breath.
• Yeast infection caused by ill-fitting dentures
• Dental cavities

Medical problems and Bad Breath

• Respiratory tract infections: bronchitis, pneumonia, chronic sinus infection, post nasal drip
• Diabetes
• Chronic acid reflux (GERD)
• Liver or kidney problems
• Dry mouth: saliva is produced to moisten the mouth. It neutralizes acids produced by plaque and wash away dead cells accumulate on the tongue, gums, and cheeks. If not removed, these cells decompose and can cause bad breath.
• Dry mouth may be a side effect of medications
• Dry mouth is caused by salivary gland problems
• Dry mouth is caused by mouth breathing

Types of foods we eat and Bad Breath

• Garlic, onions, spices, and coffee can cause bad breath diet is high in protein and sugar associated with bad breath

Unhealthy lifestyle habits and Bad Breath

• Smoking and use of tobacco products
• Poor oral hygiene habits

Other factors and Bad Breath

• Metabolic disorders can cause a distinctive breath odor as a result of chemicals they produce
• Chronic Acid Reflux (GERD)
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                                             Treatment of Bad Breath

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends the followings:

• Brush 2x/day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste
• Floss between teeth daily 
• Use an antibacterial mouth rinse
• Brush the tongue to remove bacteria that contribute to oral odors (especially in the back of the tongue)
• Remove dentures or removable dentures at night and brush them with a denture cleanser before replacing them the next morning
• Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candies to stimulate salivary flow
• Talk to your dentist about your concerns:
• A thorough health history
• List of medications and supplements you are taking
• Determine the cause of bad breath: oral cause or medical cause
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                                    Some Prevention of Bad Breath

• Practice good oral hygiene: brush 2x/day, floss daily, use an antibacterial mouth rinse, clean the tongue
• Drink sufficient amount of water daily (6 to 8-ounce glasses)
• Chew sugarless gum can stimulate saliva production
• Quit smoking and avoid tobacco products
• Adjust the diet: onions, garlic, spices, sugary foods, protein, and coffee can cause bad breath
• Regular dental visit and dental cleaning with your dentist and dental hygienist
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In most cases, your dentist can treat the cause of bad breath. If your dentist determines that bad breath is not caused by oral problems, you may be referred to your physician to determine the odor source and treatment. 

Dr. Anna Lee is a general & cosmetic dentist in Glendora, CA. She is experienced in all phases of dentistry. She treats patients of all ages. If you notice that you have bad breath, don’t hesitate to call for a dental examination. Bad breath problems can be treated, so you can smile, talk and get close to your loved ones with confidence without being embarrassed about your breath. Call our office at 626-335-5114 or visit us at www.annaleedds.com.